Abstract: Predictions of the death of software are overstated. In reality, businesses are becoming more reliant on technology, not less. What’s changing, however, is the number of options available for managing, delivering, and paying for software applications. Many independent software vendors recognize the benefits of offering software as a service--a delivery alternative that can present long-term benefits for all parties.

Abstract: After dealing with the over-hype of Y2K, companies have started to reconsider the best of breed as a viable solution to satisfy their software needs. This comes as a shock to the corporate systems culture when user communities were told that fully integrated software such as ERP, SCM, and EAM were the only way to meet their software needs. After developing a level playing field, this article examines the pro’s and con’s of one alternative over the other. Read on to see if you agree with the merits of the best of breed or fully integrated software approach to software selection.

Abstract: Microsoft Point of Sale and Microsoft Retail Management System provide a complete point of purchase solution suite for small and midsize specialty retail businesses. Released in 2005, Microsoft Point of Sale has enabled Microsoft to further penetrate the retail market.

Abstract: The Delphi technique—drawing wise counsel from senior and experienced software developers—can help you prepare estimates for software development projects. With this method of software estimation, project specifications are given to a few experts, depending on their availability. Learn about the essential steps involved in this software estimation methodology for more accurate estimates of software development effort.

Abstract: Software developers need a powerful tool to control and plan the quality of their software applications. With a solution that offers project analysis, testing, and bug administration, you have options that can help increase the quality of your software products. Read about a software test tool that has administrative functions to help you more effectively plan, control, and evaluate your software as it’s developed.

Abstract: The requirement that enterprise software vendors deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI) has never been greater than right now. Customers are demanding that ROI analysis be a critical factor in their decisions to acquire new enterprise software. Without a demonstrable return, few customers are willing to invest scarce capital and human resources in new enterprirse software. A more complete analysis of return can be had by looking at the overall payback that enterprise software can offer to a company. Enterprise software payback includes not only quantifiable improvements in bottom and top line functionality, but also more qualitative measures-—such as new business opportunities, improved customer and partner relations, and improved time to market—-that contribute significantly to the success of a company's enterprise software implementation and use.

Abstract: With a workforce of 800+ employees, Check Point continues to see record revenues selling firewall and related information security solutions.

Abstract: When selecting a point of sale (POS) solution, users have a choice between stand-alone solutions and integrated solutions. They should first evaluate core and non-core components of POS systems, and assess the strengths and weaknesses of best-of-breed and integrated approaches.

Abstract: Why has it been so difficult for CRM point solution providers to even find a white knight, which has not generally been the case with even ancient ERP products? Could it be that while the traditional introspective mind-set of ERP becomes history, its functionality remains critical and CRM is being absorbed into ERP solutions?

Abstract: Xchange's protracted troubles and its recent inglorious demise and subsequent auctioned sellout may prove the fact that the CRM point providers without a clear differentiating value proposition and without enough resources have not much to look for out there in the long run other than to find an honorable exit strategy.

Abstract: Not all integrated accounting and point of sale (POS) systems are created equal. If sales prices aren’t updated, or if on-hand stock isn’t managed properly, you will be at a major competitive disadvantage. Fully integrated accounting systems move information smoothly from one module to another—but what does integration as it applies to accounting and POS software really mean?

Abstract: A store’s point of sale (POS) system is the gateway to valuable data. The problem with many legacy POS systems is that they create islands of information—information that should be shared with other parts of the organization in real time in order to serve customers cost-effectively. They also prevent retailers from adding capabilities that can boost the bottom line.

Abstract: Exceptional customer experiences revolve around one central principle: knowledge at the point of action (KAPA). Learn how your marketing, customer service, and sales systems can work together to drive customer loyalty and advocacy.

Abstract: Many successful midsized companies reach a point when transitioning to a tier-one enterprise application system is necessary. Transitioning to a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is a challenge—but it may not be as complex as you think. Learn common myths about tier-one ERP systems, as well as how ERP solutions can help you manage regulatory compliance and track performance with key performance indicators.

Abstract: At any given time, one in four mortgage providers is looking to upgrade its loan origination system. The reason: its current system provides low rates of automation—including some processing functions that are not automated at all. Using people to process loan applications decreases profitability of a company in several ways, but by automating more processes, profitability can be improved—and the hidden costs eliminated.

Abstract: Today, 70 to 80 percent of costs for processing loan applications are people-related. From a mortgage company’s perspective, this results in increased costs and decreased revenues. With ever-changing loan products, enterprises are forced to build or buy new loan origination systems periodically. And to meet these challenges, they’re choosing technology that focuses on solving business problems, not technical problems.

Abstract: Having just completed implementing your enterprise-wide software, you are about lean back, put your feet up on the desk, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Not so fast! While you were completing your implementation project, a new release of the software may have already hit the street or, for sure, there is one in the pipeline. Now you are faced with the decision as to if and when to take on the new release. Maybe now is the time to look at how a new class of software tools, enterprise process improvement (EPI), can assist you in the upgrade decision.

Abstract: The conventional unit of measurement for software size is the point. Unfortunately, the point-based measurement system fails to account for many of the complexities of software development. This paper proposes software size units (SSUs) as an alternative to points, defines their component elements, and explains how to use SSUs for more accurate software estimations and easier productivity assessments.